Who primarily makes decisions regarding discharge upgrades?

Discharge Review Boards (DRBs) are the bodies specifically designed to evaluate and make decisions regarding discharge upgrades. When a veteran seeks reconsideration of their military discharge status, the DRB reviews the circumstances surrounding the discharge and can determine whether it should be upgraded, often based on the individual’s service record, the nature of the discharge, and any pertinent evidence the veteran provides.

The process is structured to ensure that decisions are made fairly and based on a comprehensive examination of the facts. DRBs include a panel of military officials who understand the nuances of military service and discharge policies, which enables them to make informed decisions regarding upgrades.

In contrast, the Department of Veterans Affairs is primarily involved in providing benefits and services to veterans rather than directly overseeing discharge upgrades. The Military Chain of Command focuses on operational and administrative matters within the armed forces, not on post-service discharge statuses. Civilian Oversight Committees may have roles in different contexts but are typically not involved in the direct decision-making process for discharge upgrades. Thus, the role of DRBs is essential and specific to the context of discharge review, making them the correct choice for who primarily decides on discharge upgrades.